Summer Hosting Tips
Summertime. Schools out, BBQs and pool parties are in full swing, weekend house guests are arriving and your home may feel like a revolving door for friends and family. No matter the occasion for hosting, I have some tips to make your summer run smooth and your guests feeling at home and having fun.
One. Prep your inventory.
At the beginning of summer, buy cute disposable plates and napkins to have ready for any last-minute hosting or unexpected guests. Disposable cups and cutlery are great for easy clean-up and outside gatherings.
For sleepovers and house guests, travel toiletries are nice to keep on hand, especially a few extra toothbrushes. Keep a separate stash of towels designated for guests so you never have to do a rushed load of laundry.
Two. Stock up on easily accessible drinks and snacks.
Designate a part of your refrigerator for water bottles, sparkling water, sports drinks, or cold brew coffees. Drink dispensers are another easy way to have drinks readily available with cups for guests to help themselves. Setting out mugs near the coffee maker, with other things they may need like sugar and spoons will create an at-home feel and eliminate guests having to ask for everything.
Find a cute basket or galvanized tub and organize individually packaged snacks. Granola bars, chips, nuts, and crackers are easy snacks to grab and go or eat poolside.
Three. Don’t fuss over breakfast.
Everyone loves cereal. Create a fun and cute cereal bar with clear containers. Put out the bowls and spoons – no need for guests to guess where everything is if they’re up before you.
For a hot breakfast keep your pantry stocked on boxed mix for muffins or pancakes. Take a day to mix up a few different omelet recipes and freeze them for later use. Fresh fruit is a summer staple and can be used for a quick and easy breakfast side or mixed up for a cool poolside snack.
Four. Curb the boredom.
Clear off a shelf or find a basket to put activities that are easily accessible. Puzzles, board games, movies, and books are all nice to have available for parties and overnight guests. This same idea can be created outside with outdoor games and activities.
*This would also be a good spot to put sunscreen, towels, and anything else guests might have forgotten.
Five. Random, but important summer hosting tips.
Music. If you don’t have outdoor speakers, order some inexpensive Bluetooth speakers to create a fun and inviting party environment.
Cold food. Fill the bottom chaffing pan with ice and put your cold food on top. Stays cool in the summer heat.
Bug repellents. Amazon has inexpensive portable fans that can be put around seating areas and the food table to keep bugs away. Your guests will thank you.
Back-up plan. Always be ready to move the party inside or under shelter. It’s better to have both places party-ready than having to cancel.
Do the important stuff yourself. It can be helpful when guests bring things to the party whether it be a food item or an activity. Just make sure you are not dependent on whatever it is, and you are taking care of all the main food and activities. Life happens, and sometimes, guests can’t make it last minute; this way you are not missing something you accounted for.
Hope that you are excited about hosting your next summer party and feel prepared for any weekend house guests!